I suspected someone may say something like this. Is jumping in the deep end the only real answer to issues of fear or emotional turmoil? (ie, get back on the horse...)

I don't disagree with you, I was just hoping there may be something else to consider.

I am not immune to misguided emotional responses, but I believe I can generally recognize them for what they are, and ignore them. Especially when criticism comes from somebody you care about, like a partner, the emotional response is the strongest. But this is also the time to analyse what they are saying rationally and establish whether there's any truth in it. The emotional response seems to me to be to mindlessly defend.

Is there a way to be strong without exercising ?

You are right, there may be a way, I am hoping there maybe something to consider...